One Provider, Every Stage of Life: An Introduction to Med-Peds
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- Written By: Dr. Alana C. Nichols, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics (Med-Peds)
Dr. Alana C. Nichols, Internal Medicine–Pediatrics Physician, provides comprehensive care for both children and adults. She explains what Med-Peds is, who it’s for, and how this unique approach to primary care supports long-term health and family-centered care.
Understanding Med-Peds: Comprehensive Care for Every Stage of Life
Med-Peds stands for Internal Medicine–Pediatrics, a combined medical specialty that offers comprehensive care across the lifespan. Physicians trained in Med-Peds complete an integrated four-year residency, two years of internal medicine and two years of pediatrics, and are eligible for board certification in both specialties. This dual training sets Med-Peds apart by preparing providers to care for patients from infancy through adulthood and into older age.
Care From Birth Through the Senior Years
One of the defining features of Med-Peds is the ability to care for patients from birth until the end of life. This means patients don’t need to switch providers as they grow older, allowing for continuity of care and long-term relationships built on trust and familiarity.
One Physician for the Whole Family
Med-Peds offers a unique benefit for families: one doctor can care for both children and adults. Both parents and children can see a Med-Peds provider, making scheduling easier and care more coordinated. When pediatric patients reach adulthood, they can transition seamlessly without the stress of finding a new provider while continuing care with a physician who already knows their medical history.
Pediatric Care That Mirrors Traditional Pediatrics
In pediatric settings, Med-Peds providers practice just like any other pediatrician. They diagnose and treat the full range of childhood conditions, from routine illnesses and vaccines to well-child visits and more complex pediatric concerns.
Comprehensive Adult and Chronic Disease Management
In adult clinics, Med-Peds providers function as internists, managing a wide variety of adult health conditions. This includes preventive care, acute concerns, and long-term management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and other common adult conditions.
A Personalized Approach to Preventive Care and Wellness
Preventive care is a cornerstone of Med-Peds practice. From the very first visit, care is tailored to each individual, regardless of age. Providers take the time to understand their patients, asking thoughtful questions and building relationships that guide personalized care plans. Meeting patients where they are and recognizing their unique capabilities and challenges is essential to supporting long-term health and wellness.
Supporting Patients With Complex and Lifelong Conditions
Med-Peds physicians are uniquely equipped to care for patients with childhood-onset or complex medical conditions as they move into adulthood. Many patients with intricate medical histories continue seeing pediatric specialists well into adulthood. Med-Peds training allows for a smooth transition, blending pediatric knowledge with adult care principles. This dual expertise also supports care for conditions that overlap age groups, such as managing hypertension or diabetes in children and young adults.
Is Med-Peds the Right Choice for You?
Med-Peds is an excellent option for patients seeking a provider skilled in both pediatrics and internal medicine. With equal depth of training in both areas, patients can feel confident in the quality of care they receive, no matter their age, stage of life, or medical needs.